News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Thursday. November 7, 2024: The Miss Panama Organization has officially stripped 19-year-old Itali Mora of her title as Miss Universe Panama 2024 following her recent expulsion from the Miss Universe pageant. While the organization initially indicated that she would retain her title, they later reversed this decision, citing “repeated contract violations” as the reason for her dismissal.
In an official statement, the organization denied the rumors about her expulsion, saying: “We categorically deny any version of events intended to mislead public opinion about the reasons for this decision.” The statement clarified that the organization remains committed to the standards of Miss Universe and will focus on selecting Panama’s representative for Miss Universe 2025.
Italy’s response Got it
Mora reacted strongly to the loss of her title, claiming on social networks that she had faced “violated rights” and “extortion”. She also asked for an official copy of her dismissal and details of the sanctions. “I am NOT the first Miss Universe to be fired for exposing my violated rights and the extortion we faced by national and international bodies,” she posted.
Leaked Audio Controversy
Mora’s dismissal came amid a leaked audio scandal allegedly involving César Anel Rodríguez, the director of Miss Panama. The audio, shared online, appears to reveal a secret plan to provide unauthorized make-up assistance to Mora, which would have breached pageant rules. In the recording, Rodríguez reportedly discusses plans to arrange a private space for Mora’s makeup, saying, “Of course, this is the room to arrange Italy, quietly, because it’s something that’s done under the table.”
Rodríguez defended the organization in a live video, explaining that Mora “made a mistake that the organization cannot allow.” Despite her exclusion from Miss Universe 2024, Rodríguez maintained that Mora would remain part of the organization, stating, “She is still the queen of our organization and will continue to have our full support and appreciation.”
What’s next for Panama?
With the Miss Universe pageant underway and the crowning ceremony set for November 16 in Mexico City, Panama will not be represented at this year’s pageant.
